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6mamsalqlscn

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A saliva test that detects 6-monoacetylmorphine (6-MAM), a unique marker of heroin use in the body.

Quick summary

{"6-MAM is a specific metabolite produced when the body processes heroin","This test uses saliva (oral fluid) to check for recent heroin use","Results can typically detect heroin use within 24-48 hours","A positive result indicates recent heroin use","This is a screening test; confirmatory testing may be needed"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
87816-5
Short code
6MAMSAL
Synonyms
6MAM Sal Ql Scn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Oral fluid collection device (specific to manufacturer - typically a collection swab or container with stabilizer)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
screen
CPT
80307
SNOMED
415271004
Specimen volume
Typically 0.5-2 mL of oral fluid collected via specific oral fluid collection device
Stability
Room temperature: 1-7 days depending on collection device; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7-14 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30+ days. Stability varies by manufacturer and collection device used
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The 6-MAM (6-monoacetylmorphine) saliva test is a screening test that detects the presence of 6-MAM in your saliva (also called oral fluid). 6-MAM is a unique substance that your body produces when it breaks down heroin. Unlike other opioids like morphine or codeine, 6-MAM is only produced from heroin, making it a specific marker for heroin use.

How does the test work?

The test uses a saliva sample collected from your mouth. A healthcare provider will either ask you to swab the inside of your cheek or will collect saliva using a special collection device. The sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to detect whether 6-MAM is present. This is called a 'screen' or 'preliminary' test, which looks for the presence of the substance. If the screen is positive, additional confirmatory testing may be performed.

What does the result mean?

A 'negative' result means no 6-MAM was detected in your saliva at the time of testing. A 'positive' result means 6-MAM was detected, indicating recent heroin use (typically within the last 24-48 hours). It's important to note that this test is very specific for heroin use—it will not be positive from other opioid medications like morphine, oxycodone, or hydrocodone.

Why might my doctor order this test?

Doctors may order this test for various reasons, including: monitoring individuals in substance abuse treatment programs, pre-employment or workplace drug testing, monitoring patients on opioid pain medications to ensure proper use, legal or forensic investigations, or checking for heroin use in emergency situations.

Reference range

Negative - No 6-Monoacetylmorphine (6-MAM) detected at the screening cutoff concentrationN/A

Specimen: serum

Patient should not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum for at least 10-15 minutes before sample collection. Inform the collection facility of any medications, supplements, or substances recently consumed. Rinse mouth with water if needed prior to collection

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

How long after using heroin will this test detect it?
The 6-MAM saliva test can typically detect heroin use within 24-48 hours after use. The exact detection window varies depending on factors such as the amount used, individual metabolism, and frequency of use.
Will pain medications cause a positive result?
No. This test is specifically designed to detect 6-MAM, which is only produced when heroin is metabolized. Other opioid pain medications like morphine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, or codeine will NOT cause a positive result on this test.
Can a positive result be wrong (false positive)?
While the 6-MAM test is highly specific for heroin, there is a small possibility of false positives due to laboratory error or contamination. If the screening test is positive, confirmatory testing (using a more precise method like mass spectrometry) is typically performed to verify the result.
Is the test painful?
No, the saliva test is non-invasive and painless. It simply requires collecting a sample of saliva from your mouth, usually by swabbing the inside of your cheek.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within a few days, depending on the laboratory. Rapid screening tests may provide results in as little as 15-30 minutes, but these preliminary results should be confirmed by a formal laboratory test.
  1. 1
    Lab Tests Online - Heroin TestingSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - Toxicology InformationSource
  3. 3
    Clinical Toxicology Resources - Opioid TestingSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy